Why There is Mold on Your Roof
Jun 30, 2018If you live in areas exposed to periodically damp cool weather conditions, chances are that you have seen various molds, algae, fungus and lichen growing on your roof. That fuzzy brown or green fungal growth, or worse, a slick film on the edge of the roof tiles is an almost sure indication that mold has invaded your roof and it requires immediate attention.
Shaded areas increase the chance of mold growth. Exposure to direct sunlight has an influence on mold growth, the more your roof is exposed to the sun, the less likely that moss and lichens will thrive. Combining shade and cool moist conditions, give the ideal condition for moss or lichen growth on a roof surface.
All About Mold
The mold in your roof is actually an algae-like bacteria with a scientific name of gloeocapsa magma. Gloeocapsa magma feeds on limestone and moisture present in your asphalt shingles. Modern asphalt shingles contain limestone as a filler material.
Mold spores travel in the air but require just the right conditions to thrive. Roofs exposed to little or no direct sunlight, collect debris and have no proper drainage will provide these ideal conditions for mold development. Other conditions that create a nice, moist environment for mold spores to grow include an undiscovered roof leak, water draining into the foundation and debris gathering in a roof corner.
If mold is permitted to persist on the roof surface, it will create ugly stains or black streaks. Mold on the roof surface is usually not a catastrophic problem but it does reduce your home’s curb appeal and makes it look older.
Harmful Effects of Mold Growth on Your Roof
- Mold and fungus growth are a health risk to those living inside the house
- It weakens the structural integrity of the entire home
- Mold damages and speeds up the wear of your shingles and thus drastically reduce the lifespan of your roof which in turn means you spend more on your roof than you should.
How to Prevent Mold Growth on Your Roof
- Ensure that you have the proper ventilation necessary for your home, complete with ridge vents.
- Clean your roof. Ensure that you keep debris off your roof to reduce the chances of mold growth.
- If you live in humid environments, you might consider replacing your roof made of asphalt shingles or wood shingles/shakes with a roofing material that is better suited to resist moisture such as a metal roof or the new algae-resistant asphalt shingles
- You can install zinc or copper strips near the ridge of your home. Rainwater will collect ions from the metals strips which help to keep mold from growing
Ultimately, taking care of your roof and maintaining it will go a long way in preventing mold development. It will, in the long run, prolong the life of your roof. You should also perform regular inspections to know if mold has gotten a foothold on your roof. You may consider having a professional take a look at the roof annually.
Visit our website at hprtexas.com to fill out a contact form today!
High-Performance Restoration LLC
6500 Preston Rd #201
Frisco, TX 75034
(214) 396-7772
